#my2k: Families

December 5, 2012

If Congress fails to act, taxes will go up for working Americans. What would paying $2,000 more in taxes mean to families across the country? Here are just a few responses:

"My wife and I have twin boys. We are thrilled to be adding a new baby to our family in April! However, I'm a teacher and she is a professional musician. We love what we do, but with our current salaries, we couldn't possibly afford the costs that will come with the birth if we lost $2,000. My income went down slightly because my district dropped dental insurance, so we now pay it on our own. We love what we do, love helping educate kids and provide for the community but as you can see, couldn't withstand a $2,000 tax hike; not with a baby on the way."
—Kevin, Texas

"It could mean Christmas presents for my three kids and my extended family. Or it could mean a year of after school activities—dance lessons and piano lessons and art lessons. Or it could mean paying for our life insurance policies, which make sure that our kids are taken care of if anything happens to us. It's a lot."
—Abigail, New York

"I am an elementary teacher trying to support my little family of three, and $2,000 is what I bring home each month after taxes and health care. I rent a room, and drive a car I bought for $500 so that I can save up to one day be a home owner. $2,000 more in taxes per year could keep this educated, hardworking father from realizing his dream."
—Jeremiah, Washington

"My husband is an active duty military member and I am a veteran. I have been a student/stay-at-home mom for the last two years. I am starting a Master in Social Work from The University of Southern California. I have to do 20 hours a week of field practice and will have to get a caregiver for my son. $2,000 is almost four months of child care for my son. Please pass the tax cuts for those making under $250,000, my family cannot afford to pay more in taxes while we create a lasting plan for our family."
—Martha, Florida

"Losing $2,000 a year would be detrimental to my family. My husband and I are both nontraditional students going back to school get our bachelor's in software engineering and nursing. Losing that money would mean more credit card debt and possibly going on food stamps while in college. We're trying to make our futures better and hope that Congress will aid us in this journey."
—Kara, Alabama